Wilson Reis Discusses Losing His UFC 201 Title Shot

– Wilson Reis recently spoke with mmajunkie.com, here are the highlights…

On Losing His Fight With Demetrious Johnson: “Going from Demetrious Johnson – one of the best pound-for-pound (fighters) in the world – to a normal fight was a little sad. “I was very well-trained, but I didn’t have many options. We tried to fight him at another date, but since the UFC is doing ‘The Ultimate Fighter’ and the winner will get the title shot, there wasn’t the possibility of my being his next fight. It would have to be after that fight with the ‘TUF’ champion. I didn’t want to stop my camp. I’m very well-trained, and I wanted to make the best out of it, so I chose to take another fight. I was sad. I was upset. I was training for a huge fight and opportunity. I had that on my mind for two months, building expectations, improving myself. And the fight wasn’t even postponed; it was canceled. It was certainly very frustrating.”

On Fighting Hector Sandoval: “Honestly, I don’t know much about him,” Reis said. “I didn’t even look much. I left it to my coaches since I’m not usually one to look too much into fighters. I know it’s going to be a tough guy. He trains with Urijah Faber. I think he’s a bit shorter than me, which is good. We know he’s very explosive. He’s got a good record and is coming off a good moment. It’s also a good opportunity for him, to fight me right away, so he’s going to come in with all he’s got, and we’ll be prepared. I was getting ready to fight the best in my division, so whomever I face now doesn’t matter much. I’m focused. And adjusting the game right now isn’t that hard. We’re just making a few tweaks for him, but we’re ready.”

On Being Prepared For His New Opponent: “I’m fighting (Sandoval); hopefully I’ll win and win well,” Reis said. “I want to ask for a fight the same day Demetrious comes back, against a well-ranked guy. I’m going to win and maybe challenge him that same day. I’ve trained for five rounds to train with the best, pound-for-pound. I won’t fight him now, but I’m always prepared, and this is the fight I deserve. I’ll do everything right, so I’m always right there. When it happens, they can count on me. I’m ready. Whatever happens, I’m going to be ready. But what I want the most right now is to fight for the belt.”